Passed away peacefully at home on April 9, 2021, at 96 years old. Born October 9, 1924 to Harry and Misao Okada, he was the second oldest of six. He was predeceased by sisters Gail Tom, Amy Arai, Nora Hubbard, and Violet Miki, brother Sonny Okada, first wife Amy, and son Alan Okada.He started working for Okada Trucking Co., Ltd. at 15 years old, driving and maintaining the vehicles in Okada's trucking business. When the trucking business expanded to do road work and construction, he progressed to be a heavy equipment operator.
After retiring from the construction industry, Walter opened and ran the Newtown Golf Driving Range as the general manager until August 2020, when the Range was closed and eventually sold. He loved meeting the customers at the Range and would often give them tokens, balls and other merchandise; then went to the office to pay for it out of his own pocket. His 37 years managing the Range were the most enjoyable years in his long career.
Walter enjoyed playing golf and fishing for moi from the shore. He also took pride in the avocado, pink jabong, orange and mango trees that he had planted at the Range. He shared the fruits with staff, family, friends and customers. He would also ship in persimmon from Maui and lychee from the Big Island to share. He was known as being a kind and generous man. He enjoyed making those close to him happy.
Walter's biggest pleasure was enjoying the excitement of Las Vegas. He looked forward to going there as much as possible and was admired for his ability to "roll the bones". He loved pressing the "4" and "10". He was quick to make friends, and many of the staff and fellow craps players became his extended family. Vegas will definitely miss him.
Walter enjoyed seeing and talking with people, and he missed the human connection during the Covid pandemic.
He is survived by wife Cindy, Yorkies Zoey and Gino, sons Nathan and Brian (Terri). Grandchildren Kaylen and Lianne (Bryan Yi). Great-grandchildren Alana, Eddie, and Vera Yi.
Private services were held. On behalf of Walter, donations may be sent to Oahu Junior Golf Association, P.O. Box 1140, Pearl City, HI 96782. He always had a special place in his heart for the young golfers, and hopes to continue the nurturing.
He was always appreciative of those who were kind to him. If he could say one final thing, it would be "Thank you for being a part of my life! I appreciated your love and kindness!"
We will all cherish our fond memories we shared with you, Walter.
Thank you for being a part of our lives!
Arrangements Provided By: Nuuanu Memorial Park & Mortuary LLC
